US ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety. Picture: Twitter/ @USAmbRSA
The United States (US) Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, has announced his resignation.
Brigety, a member of the Democratic Party under outgoing US President Joe Biden, made the announcement on Monday.
Brigety said he informed the South African government that he would resign as the US Ambassador to South Africa effective 10 January 2025, in accordance with “standard procedure during a change of presidential administration”.
“Serving in this role and fostering the strong relationship between the United States and South Africa has been an immense honour.
“US ambassadors serve at the pleasure of the president, and with the recent election in the US, the American people have expressed their choice for the future direction of our country, reflecting our shared commitment to democratic principles,” Brigety said.
The United States will have a new administration after Donald Trump beat Democratic Party candidate Kamala Harris in the recent elections.
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Brigety said he witnessed remarkable progress in the “US-South Africa partnership” during his tenure.
“On trade, we have supported South African businesses in accessing the US market through Agoa [African Growth and Opportunity Act] and fostered investments in the automotive, minerals, chemicals, agricultural products, and transportation sectors. These initiatives have contributed significantly to the country’s economic development and support more than 267 000 jobs in South Africa.”
Brigety was at the heart of a major diplomatic storm between South Africa, Russia and the US when he accused Pretoria of loading arms destined for Russia after it had waged war against Ukraine.
He refused to be drawn into the controversial docking of the Russian ship, Lady R, in Simon’s Town Naval Base in 2022.
At the time, Brigety said he would “bet his life” that South Africa was supplying arms to Russia, which led to a rand slide, with South Africa incurring huge reputational damage with its trade allies in the West.
Though he apologised for his remarks, he has never withdrawn the statement.
During his tenure, Brigety’s relationship with the governing African National Congress (ANC), alliance partners and Ramaphosa’s Cabinet regressed, with many urging his recall.
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Brigety also elaborated on the US and South Africa’s collaboration in global health, the facilitation of cultural exchanges, and educational opportunities among other discussions.
“The increased understanding between our peoples has been equally enriching.
“As I conclude my service, I express my profound gratitude to the government and people of South Africa for their warm hospitality and unwavering partnership. I know the mission will continue to deepen the US-South Africa relationship and it will flourish thanks to the strong foundations we’ve built together,” Brigety said.
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